editorial/wednesday

Midland Reporter-Telegram

Published 9:00 pm, Wednesday, January 13, 2010

The Associated Press recently reported on a story that dealt with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu order for the construction of two massive fences along the long southern border with Egypt. As we read that story, it reminded us of our own border miseries.

The United States isn't the only nation with problems along its borders, but it is remarkable how Israel and the U.S. mirror each other when it comes to dealing with border woes. The two nations appear to be on the same course to fix virtually the same set of problems.

President Netanyahu has decided to build border fences along Israel's Egyptian border in the same way the U.S. is trying to wall off its border with Mexico. Surprisingly, however, Netanyahu is doing it for the very same reasons.

The AP quoted Netanyahu as saying, "I decided to close Israel's southern border to infiltrators and terrorists after prolonged discussions. This is a strategic decision to ensure the Jewish and democratic character of the state of Israel. Israel will remain open to war refugees but we cannot allow thousands of illegal workers to infiltrate into Israel via the southern border and flood our country."

Israel, like the U.S., is concerned about the constant flow of illegal workers into the country because it robs jobs from Israeli citizens and it is a drain on government, which can't collect taxes from an increasing flow of illegal immigrants.

And like the U.S. with Mexico, Israel is most concerned about terrorist using the entryway through Egypt, an area suspected of having an al-Qaida presence. Israel is even more aware of the terrorist activity than the U.S. because it is under constant threat of suicide bombers and other attacks within the country. The AP reported a Gaza suicide bomber sneaked into Israel's Eilat through Egypt.

Smugglers also use the border to traffic women into Israel's prostitution trade, and it's also a main conduit for drugs entering the country.

We share much of the same concerns as Israel, but there is one huge significant difference. Israel's border in question is 150 miles. The fencing project is expected to cost about $400 million. America's border, on the other hand, is longer than 1,000 miles and the fence will cost us billions.

And neither side can insure the walls will halt the illegal flow. Again, we have a lot in common with Israel on this issue.